Temperature sensitive valve having shape memory actuator

ABSTRACT

A valve for preventing the flow of fluid from an outlet when the temperature of the fluid is above a predetermined threshold. The valve including: a body having at least one opening for allowing the fluid to pass through the outlet when the temperature of the fluid is below the predetermined threshold; and a shape memory actuator for substantially closing the at least one opening when the temperature of the fluid is above the predetermined threshold to prevent the fluid from passing through the outlet.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Divisional Application of U.S. Ser. No. 12/437,536filed on May 7, 2009, which is a Divisional Application of U.S. Ser. No.10/338,329 filed on Jan. 8, 2003, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application 60/346,551 filed on Jan. 8, 2002, the entirecontents of each of which is incorporated herein by its reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to a safety valve for containersof hot fluids, and more particularly, to a safety valve for coffeecontainers and baby bottles which automatically prevent the dispensingof a fluid that has a temperature greater than a threshold temperature.

2. Prior Art

Many people are burned by hot coffee, tea, and hot chocolate drank fromtravel mugs and disposable coffee cups. Similarly, many people areburned from hot soup eaten from disposable containers. Furthermore,babies are sometimes burned by drinking baby formula that has beenheated using a microwave oven or by boiling. Still others, particularlychildren, are burned by scolding hot water from a shower, sink, orbathtub.

There are currently no devices known in the art for preventing peoplefrom being burned from drinking or eating hot fluids from containers,particularly disposable containers and baby bottles. With regard todisposable containers, such a device must be reliable and inexpensivesince it should also be disposable. With regard to the baby bottles,such a device should also be reliable and must also be able to withstandrepeated sterilizations.

There are also devices known in the art for preventing scolding hotwater from being dispensed in the bathtub, shower, and sink. However,these devices are generally complicated and expensive.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Therefore it is an object of the present invention to provide a safetyvalve for containers of hot liquids, which prevents the hot liquid frombeing dispensed if the hot liquid has a temperature, which could beharmful to a user of the container.

It is another object of the present invention to provide such safetyvalves, which are capable of withstanding repeated sterilizations.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a safetyvalve to prevent scolding hot water from being dispensed into a bathtub,sink, and shower.

It is still a further object of the present invention to provide suchsafety valves, which are inexpensive to fabricate.

Accordingly, a lid for a container of a hot fluid is provided. The lidcomprises: a surface having an opening for dispensing the hot fluid; anda valve having an open position for dispensing the hot fluid and aclosed position for substantially stopping the flow of the hot fluidfrom the container when a temperature of the hot fluid is more than apredetermined threshold temperature, the valve having a shape memoryactuator which changes its shape in response to the hot fluid having atemperature above the threshold temperature to actuate the valve intothe closed position.

Preferably, the lid further comprises means for attaching the lid to thecontainer. Where the container is a cup having a cavity defined by awall and a peripheral rim, the means for attaching the lid to the cuppreferably comprises a lipped surface extending from the surface thatsealingly engages the peripheral rim of the cup.

The valve preferably comprises a flap rotatably disposed on the lid by ahinge between the open and closed positions, wherein in the closedposition, the flap covers the opening and substantially stops the flowof hot fluid from the cup, the shape memory actuator being disposed atthe hinge to rotate the flap upon the change in shape. The openingpreferably comprises a push-in tab defined by a perforation in the lid,which when pushed into the lid forms the opening.

Also provided is a container of a hot fluid. The container comprises: atleast one wall defining a cavity for holding the hot fluid; a liddisposed on the wall to enclose the cavity, the lid having a surface,the surface having an opening for dispensing the hot fluid; and a valvedisposed on one of the wall or lid, the valve having an open positionfor dispensing the hot fluid and a closed position for substantiallystopping the flow of the hot fluid from the container when a temperatureof the hot fluid is more than a predetermined threshold temperature, thevalve having a shape memory actuator which changes its shape in responseto the hot fluid having a temperature above the threshold temperature toactuate the valve into the closed position.

The container preferably further comprises means for attaching the lidto the container. Where the container is a cup and having a peripheralrim in fluid communication with the cavity, the means for attaching thelid to the cup comprises a lipped surface extending from the surface ofthe lid that sealingly engages the peripheral rim of the cup.

The valve preferably comprises a flap rotatably disposed on one of thewall or lid by a hinge between the open and closed positions, wherein inthe closed position, the flap covers the opening and substantially stopsthe flow of hot fluid from the cup, the shape memory actuator beingdisposed at the hinge to rotate the flap upon the change in shape.Preferably, the opening comprises a push-in tab defined by a perforationin the lid, which when pushed into the lid forms the opening.

Still provided is a valve for preventing the dispensing of fluid from ababy bottle when the temperature of the fluid is above a predeterminedthreshold. The valve comprises: a body having at least one opening forallowing the fluid to pass from a bottle portion of the baby bottle to anipple portion of the baby bottle when the temperature of the fluid isbelow the predetermined threshold; and a shape memory actuator forsubstantially closing the at least one opening when the temperature ofthe fluid is above the predetermined threshold to prevent the fluid frompassing from the bottle portion to the nipple portion.

Preferably, the body is disk shaped the at least one opening comprises aplurality of openings. Preferably, at least some of the plurality ofopenings are arranged annularly about the disc.

The actuator preferably comprises a flap corresponding to the at leastone opening, the flap being fabricated from a shape memory material andhaving a shape at a temperature below the determined threshold such thatit does not occlude the at least one opening, the flap having a shape ata temperature above the determined threshold such that it does occludethe at least one opening to prevent the passage of fluid from the bottleportion to the nipple portion. The flap is preferably fabricated from ashape memory material that exhibits a two-way memory such that it has afirst shape below the predetermined threshold so as not to occlude theat least one opening and has a second shape above the predeterminedthreshold so as to occlude the at least one opening.

Alternatively, the actuator comprises a flap corresponding to the atleast one opening, the flap being fabricated from a shape memorymaterial and having a cupped shape at a temperature below the determinedthreshold such that it does not occlude the at least one opening, theflap having a flat shape at a temperature above the determined thresholdsuch that it does occlude the at least one opening to prevent thepassage of fluid from the bottle portion to the nipple portion. The flapis preferably fabricated from a shape memory material that exhibits atwo-way memory such that it has the cupped shape below the predeterminedthreshold so as not to occlude the at least one opening and has the flatshape above the predetermined threshold so as to occlude the at leastone opening.

Still provided is a baby bottle comprising: a bottle portion having acavity for holding a fluid; a nipple portion disposed on the bottleportion and in fluid communication with the cavity, the nipple portionhaving a nipple which when suckled dispenses the fluid; and a valvedisposed between the bottle and nipple portions, the valve having a bodyhaving at least one opening for allowing the fluid to pass from thebottle portion to the nipple portion of the baby bottle when thetemperature of the fluid is below a predetermined threshold, the valvefurther having a shape memory actuator for substantially closing the atleast one opening when the temperature of the fluid is above thepredetermined threshold to prevent the fluid from passing from thebottle portion to the nipple portion.

The body of the valve is preferably disk shaped and the valve isdisposed between an upper lip of the bottle portion and a flange of thenipple portion. Preferably, the at least one opening comprises aplurality of openings where at least some of the plurality of openingsare arranged annularly about the disc.

Preferably, the actuator comprises a flap corresponding to the at leastone opening, the flap being fabricated from a shape memory material andhaving a shape at a temperature below the determined threshold such thatit does not occlude the at least one opening, the flap having a shape ata temperature above the determined threshold such that it does occludethe at least one opening to prevent the passage of fluid from the bottleportion to the nipple portion. The flap is preferably fabricated from ashape memory material that exhibits a two-way memory such that it has afirst shape below the predetermined threshold so as not to occlude theat least one opening and has a second shape above the predeterminedthreshold so as to occlude the at least one opening.

Alternatively, the actuator comprises a flap corresponding to the atleast one opening, the flap being fabricated from a shape memorymaterial and having a cupped shape at a temperature below the determinedthreshold such that it does not occlude the at least one opening, theflap having a flat shape at a temperature above the determined thresholdsuch that it does occlude the at least one opening to prevent thepassage of fluid from the bottle portion to the nipple portion. The flapis preferably fabricated from a shape memory material that exhibits atwo-way memory such that it has the cupped shape below the predeterminedthreshold so as not to occlude the at least one opening and has the flatshape above the predetermined threshold so as to occlude the at leastone opening.

Still provided is a valve for preventing the flow of fluid from anoutlet when the temperature of the fluid is above a predeterminedthreshold. The valve comprises: a body having at least one opening forallowing the fluid to pass through the outlet when the temperature ofthe fluid is below the predetermined threshold; and a shape memoryactuator for substantially closing the at least one opening when thetemperature of the fluid is above the predetermined threshold to preventthe fluid from passing through the outlet. Preferably, the body is diskshaped and the at least one opening comprises a plurality of openingswhere at least some of the plurality of openings are arranged annularlyabout the disc.

The actuator preferably comprises a flap corresponding to the at leastone opening, the flap being fabricated from a shape memory material andhaving a shape at a temperature below the determined threshold such thatit does not occlude the at least one opening, the flap having a shape ata temperature above the determined threshold such that it does occludethe at least one opening to prevent the passage of fluid through theoutlet. The flap is preferably fabricated from a shape memory materialthat exhibits a two-way memory such that it has a first shape below thepredetermined threshold so as not to occlude the at least one openingand has a second shape above the predetermined threshold so as toocclude the at least one opening.

Alternatively, the actuator comprises a flap corresponding to the atleast one opening, the flap being fabricated from a shape memorymaterial and having a cupped shape at a temperature below the determinedthreshold such that it does not occlude the at least one opening, theflap having a flat shape at a temperature above the determined thresholdsuch that it does occlude the at least one opening to prevent thepassage of fluid through the outlet. The flap is preferably fabricatedfrom a shape memory material that exhibits a two-way memory such that ithas the cupped shape below the predetermined threshold so as not toocclude the at least one opening and has the flat shape above thepredetermined threshold so as to occlude the at least one opening.

Still provided is a valve for preventing the flow of fluid when thetemperature of the fluid is above a predetermined threshold. The valvecomprises: a body having at least one opening for allowing the fluid topass when the temperature of the fluid is below the predeterminedthreshold; and a shape memory actuator for substantially closing the atleast one opening when the temperature of the fluid is above thepredetermined threshold to prevent the fluid from passing. Preferably,the body is disk shaped and the at least one opening comprises aplurality of openings in which case at least some of the plurality ofopenings are preferably arranged annularly about the disc.

Preferably, the actuator comprises a flap corresponding to the at leastone opening, the flap being fabricated from a shape memory material andhaving a shape at a temperature below the determined threshold such thatit does not occlude the at least one opening, the flap having a shape ata temperature above the determined threshold such that it does occludethe at least one opening to prevent the passage of fluid. Preferably,the flap is fabricated from a shape memory material that exhibits atwo-way memory such that it has a first shape below the predeterminedthreshold so as not to occlude the at least one opening and has a secondshape above the predetermined threshold so as to occlude the at leastone opening.

Alternatively, the actuator comprises a flap corresponding to the atleast one opening, the flap being fabricated from a shape memorymaterial and having a cupped shape at a temperature below the determinedthreshold such that it does not occlude the at least one opening, theflap having a flat shape at a temperature above the determined thresholdsuch that it does occlude the at least one opening to prevent thepassage of fluid. Preferably, the flap is fabricated from a shape memorymaterial that exhibits a two-way memory such that it has the cuppedshape below the predetermined threshold so as not to occlude the atleast one opening and has the flat shape above the predeterminedthreshold so as to occlude the at least one opening.

Preferably, the valve further comprises a seal disposed between asurface of the body and the actuator for sealing the flow of fluid.

Still provided is a coupling for placement in a fluid conduit. Thecoupling comprises: a coupling body having an inlet end and an outletend; and a valve disposed in the coupling body for preventing the flowof fluid from the outlet end when the temperature of the fluid is abovea predetermined threshold, the valve having a valve body having at leastone opening for allowing the fluid to pass through the outlet end whenthe temperature of the fluid is below the predetermined threshold, and ashape memory actuator for substantially closing the at least one openingwhen the temperature of the fluid is above the predetermined thresholdto prevent the fluid from passing through the outlet end.

Still provided is a faucet outlet fitting for preventing the flow offluid from the outlet when the temperature of the fluid is above apredetermined threshold. The fitting comprises: a fitting body having aconduit in fluid communication with the outlet and a threaded portionfor fastening to a mating threaded portion on the outlet; and a valve,the valve having a valve body having at least one opening for allowingthe fluid to pass through the outlet when the temperature of the fluidis below the predetermined threshold; and a shape actuator forsubstantially closing the at least one opening when the temperature ofthe fluid is above the predetermined threshold to prevent the fluid frompassing through the outlet.

Still provided is a showerhead for preventing the flow of fluid from ashower outlet when the temperature of the fluid is above a predeterminedthreshold. The showerhead comprises: a showerhead body having a conduitin fluid communication with the outlet and a threaded portion forfastening to a mating threaded portion on the outlet; and a valve, thevalve having a valve body having at least one opening for allowing thefluid to pass through the outlet when the temperature of the fluid isbelow the predetermined threshold; and a shape memory actuator forsubstantially closing the at least one opening when the temperature ofthe fluid is above the predetermined threshold to prevent the fluid frompassing through the outlet.

Still further provided is a straw for preventing the flow of fluid whenthe temperature of the fluid is above a predetermined threshold. Thestraw comprising: a valve having an open position for dispensing the hotfluid and a closed position for substantially stopping the flow of thehot fluid from the container when a temperature of the hot fluid is morethan a predetermined threshold temperature, the valve having a shapememory actuator which changes its shape in response to the hot fluidhaving a temperature above the threshold temperature to actuate thevalve into the closed position.

Still yet provided is a valve for preventing the flow of fluid when thetemperature of the fluid is above a predetermined threshold. The valvecomprising: a body having at least one opening for allowing the fluid topass when the temperature of the fluid is below the predeterminedthreshold; and a shape memory or bi-metal actuator for substantiallyclosing the at least one opening when the temperature of the fluid isabove the predetermined threshold to prevent the fluid from passing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the apparatus andmethods of the present invention will become better understood withregard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanyingdrawings where:

FIG. 1 illustrates a sectional view of a first lid configurationattached to a container, the first lid having a preferred implementationof a safety valve of the present invention for lids having the firstconfiguration, wherein the safety valve is in an open position.

FIG. 2 illustrates a partial sectional view of the lid and container ofFIG. 1 wherein the safety valve is in the closed position.

FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of the lid of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 illustrates a partial sectional view taken along line 4-4 in FIG.3.

FIG. 5 illustrates a top view of a second lid configuration, the secondlid having a preferred implementation of a safety valve of the presentinvention for lids having the second configuration, wherein the safetyvalve is in an initial closed position.

FIG. 6 illustrates a sectional view of taken along line 6-6 in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 illustrates the sectional view of FIG. 5 in which the safetyvalve is in an open position.

FIG. 8 illustrates a sectional view of a baby bottle configurationhaving a preferred implementation of a safety valve of the presentinvention for baby bottles having such a configuration, the safety valvebeing shown in an open position.

FIG. 9 illustrates a partial sectional view of the baby bottle of FIG. 8in which the safety valve is shown in a closed position.

FIG. 10 illustrates a top view of a first version of the safety valve ofFIGS. 8 and 9.

FIG. 11 illustrates a sectional view of the valve of FIG. 10 taken alongline 11-11 of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 illustrates a top view of a second version of the safety valveof FIGS. 8 and 9.

FIG. 13 illustrates a sectional view of the valve of FIG. 12 taken alongline 13-13 of FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 illustrates a sectional view of an outlet end of a faucet havinga safety valve of the present invention.

FIG. 15 illustrates a sectional view of an outlet end of a showerheadhaving a safety valve of the present invention.

FIG. 16 illustrates a sectional view of a coupling having a safety valveof the present invention.

FIG. 17 illustrates a sectional valve of an outlet end of a faucethaving two safety valves and a means for disengaging one of the safetyvalves.

FIG. 18 illustrates a sectional view of a straw having a safety valveinsert.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Although this invention is applicable to numerous and various types ofcontainers and lids, it has been found particularly useful in theenvironment of disposable coffee container and lids therefore, for babybottles, and for plumbing fittings. Therefore, without limiting theapplicability of the invention to disposable coffee container and lidstherefore, for baby bottles, and for plumbing fittings, the inventionwill be described in such environment.

Furthermore, although this invention is applicable to different types ofactuators, it has been found particularly useful in the environment ofshape memory actuators. Therefore, without limiting the applicability ofthe invention to shape memory actuators, the invention will be describedin such environment. For instance, the safety valves described hereincan alternatively use a bi-metal actuator which changes shape due to adifference in thermal expansion of the metal comprising the bi-metalstrip.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-4, there is shown a first variation of a lid100 for a container 102 of a hot fluid. The container can be a travelmug, a disposable coffee container or any other container for holding ahot fluid. The container 102 has at least one wall 104 defining a cavity106 for holding the hot fluid where the lid 100 is disposed on the wall104 to enclose the cavity 106. The container 102 further has a bottom108.

The lid 100 has a means to attach to the container 102. The container102 is preferably a cup, such as a disposable Styrofoam coffee cup wherethe wall 104 has a peripheral rim 110. The means for attaching the lid100 to the container 102 preferably comprises a lipped surface 112extending from a surface 114 of the lid 100 that sealingly engages theperipheral rim 112. Such sealing means are well known in the art ofdisposable coffee cups.

The surface 114 of the lid 100 has an opening 116 for dispensing the hotfluid. The opening is generally oval shaped, but could be any othershape, such as rectangular or circular without departing from the scopeor spirit of the present invention. A valve 118 is provided and has anopen position shown in FIG. 1 for dispensing the hot fluid and a closedposition shown in FIG. 2 for substantially stopping the flow of the hotfluid from the container 102 when a temperature of the hot fluid isgreater than a predetermined threshold temperature. Preferably, thevalve 118 has a shape memory actuator 120 that changes its shape inresponse to the hot fluid having a temperature above the thresholdtemperature to actuate the valve 118 into the closed position.

Although many shape-memory materials may be used, a nickel-titaniumalloy (NiTi) is suitable. One such NiTi alloy is manufactured, forexample, by Shape Memory Applications, Inc., Santa Clara, Calif. Ingeneral, metallic shape-memory alloys, such as NiTi, CuZnA1, and CuAlNialloys, undergo a transformation in their crystal structure when cooledfrom the high-temperature austenite form, which is generally stronger,to the low-temperature martensite form, which is weaker. When ashape-memory material is in its martensitic form, it is easily deformedto a new shape. However, when the material is heated through itstransformation temperature, it reverts to austenite and recovers itsprevious shape with great force. The temperature at which the materialreverses its high temperature form when heated can be adjusted by slightchanges in material composition and through heat treatment. Theshape-memory process can be made to occur over a range of a few degrees,if necessary, and the shape transition can be made to occur millions oftimes. Heating of the shape memory actuator is accomplished by thetransfer of heat from the hot fluid in the container 102.

Some shape-memory materials can be made to exhibit shape-memory onlyupon heating (one-way shape-memory), or also can undergo a shape changeupon cooling (two-way shape memory). Shape-memory materials areavailable in many forms including, for example, wires, rods, ribbons,strips, sheets, and microtubing, and can be used to fabricateshape-memory structures having linear, planar and composite forms.

In the lid 100 configuration shown in FIGS. 1-4, the valve 118preferably comprises a flap 122 rotatably disposed on the lid 100 by ahinge 124 between the open and closed positions. When in the closedposition as shown in FIG. 2, the flap 122 covers the opening 116 andsubstantially stops the flow of hot fluid from the container 102.Preferably, the shape memory actuator 120 is disposed at the hinge 124to rotate the flap 122 upon the change in shape. The valve 118 also hasa fixed member 126 adhered to the lid 100, preferably by a heat bond,however, other types of bonds, such as an adhesive or chemical solventbond can be used. The fixed member 126 of the valve 118 is preferablyadhered to a sidewall 128 of the lid 100. The flap 122 is then free torotate about the hinge 124, which is preferably a living hinge where thefixed member 126, hinge 124, and flap 122 are of integral construction.The valve 118 can optionally have a seal (not shown) between surface 122a of the flap 122 and the lower surface 114 a of the lid. Such a sealcan be an elastomer affixed or integrally formed on one of the flapsurface 122 a or lower lid surface 114 a. Alternatively, the seal can bea lip (not shown) on one of the flap surface 122 a or lower lid surface114 a and corresponding notch (not shown) on the other of the twosurfaces 122 a, 114 a such that when in the closed position, the lipengages the notch to form a seal.

The valve 118 preferably comprises one or more, preferably two shapememory wires 130 which are disposed on the valve 118. The wires 130 arepreferably disposed on the lower surface 122 a of the flap, across thehinge 124, and on the lower surface 126 a of the fixed member 126. Thewires 130 preferably have a “one-way” memory such that when heated toabove their transition temperature, they try to take a straight shapeand thus cause the flap 122 to rotate about the hinge 124 to cover theopening 116. Although the wires 130 can be insert molded into the valve,they are preferably adhered to the valve by any means known in the art,preferably a sticker 132 is used to adhere the wires 130 to the valve118, as is shown in FIG. 4. If the container 102 is tilted to expose thewires 130 to the hot fluid and if the temperature of the hot fluid inthe container 102 is over the threshold temperature (i.e., thetransition temperature of the wires 130), the flap 122 will be rotatedto cover the opening 116, thereby avoiding a dangerous situation, suchas the hot fluid burning the mouth of the person drinking from thecontainer 102. When the temperature of the hot fluid falls to a safelevel, the flap 122 can be manually depressed back into the openposition shown in FIG. 1. Alternatively, the wires 130 can have a“two-way” memory such that they act to close the valve 118 when heatedabove the threshold temperature and they also act to open the valve 118when they cool below the threshold temperature. To facilitate heatingthe wires 130, an opening 123 is preferably maintained between the flap122 and fixed member 126 to permit the hot fluid to contact the wires130.

Referring now to FIGS. 5-7, there is shown a second variation of a lid200 for the container 102 of a hot fluid. The second variation of thelid 200 is of the type that has a perforated tab 202 that is preferablysemi-circular in shape and has a semi-circular perforation 204. The tab202, when broken along the perforation 204 and by pushing the tab intothe container 102 in the direction of Arrow A assumes an open positionas shown in FIG. 7 to allow the hot fluid to be dispensed from thecontainer 102. Preferably, the perforation is only defined along the topsurface 200 a of the lid 200 and not on a side surface 200 b of the lid200. When so configured, the tab 202 rotates about a living hinge 202 ato form the opening and cannot be completely removed from the lid 200.

A flap 206, hinge 208, and fixed member 210, similar to that describedwith regard to the first variation, is disposed on the underside of thetab 202. The fixed member 210 is adhered to the side surface 200 b ofthe lid 200 such that the flap 206 can rotate about the hinge 208. As isshown in FIGS. 5-7, the flap 206 extends past the perforation 204. Likethe first variation, a sticker 132 is adhered to the flap 206 and fixedmember 210 to retain the shape memory wires 130 therein. Preferably,three such wires 130 are utilized in the second variation. Although thesticker 132 and wires 130 can be adhered directly to the tab 202, it ispreferred to adhere them to the flap 126, which because it is extendedpast the perforation 204, completely closes the opening 116 when the tab202 and flap 206 are actuated into the closed position.

Although the safety valve is shown and discussed as being integral withthe coffee lid, those skilled in the art will appreciate that it canalso be configured as an insert and reused with disposable lids orinserted into a reusable lid and reused after each use. Furthermore, thesafety valve can be integral with or an insert to the coffee cup andadapted to cooperate with any lid used thereon.

Also provided is a temperature sensitive valve for preventing the flowof fluid when the temperature of the fluid is above a predeterminedthreshold. In general, the valve comprises: a body having at least oneopening for allowing the fluid to pass when the temperature of the fluidis below the predetermined threshold; and a shape memory actuator forsubstantially closing the at least one opening when the temperature ofthe fluid is above the predetermined threshold to prevent the fluid frompassing. The shape memory actuator can be integrally formed with thebody or preferably disposed on the body by a fastening means, such as arivet, screw and nut, or although not preferred, by a tacked, brazed, orwelded connection.

Referring now to FIGS. 8-11, there is illustrated a first variation ofthe valve, generally referred to by reference numeral 300. The valve 300of the first variation is used to prevent the dispensing of fluid from ababy bottle 302 when the temperature of the fluid is above apredetermined threshold. The baby bottle 302 has a bottle portion 304having a cavity 305 for holding a fluid, such as baby formula. The babybottle 302 further has a nipple portion 306. The nipple portion 306 isdisposed on the bottle portion 304 and is in fluid communication withthe cavity 305. The nipple portion 304 having a nipple 307 which whensuckled dispenses the fluid. The nipple portion 306 is preferablyfastened to the bottle portion 304 by a threaded ring 308. The type ofbaby bottle configuration shown is given by way of example only and notto limit the scope and spirit of the present invention. Those skilled inthe art will realize that any type of baby bottle configuration can beused with the valve 300 of the first variation of the present invention.

The valve 300 has a body 310 having at least one opening 312 forallowing the fluid in the bottle portion 304 to pass from the bottleportion 304 of the baby bottle to the nipple portion 306 of the babybottle when the temperature of the fluid is below the predeterminedthreshold. The valve body 310 is preferably disk shaped to fit in themouth of the bottle portion 304 of the baby bottle. Preferably, thevalve 300 is retained in the mouth of the baby bottle by sandwiching thebody 310 between an upper lip 304 a of the bottle portion 304 and aflange 306 a of the nipple portion 306. As shown in FIG. 11, a pluralityof openings 312 are provided in the body 312. Preferably, at least someof the plurality of openings are arranged annularly about the disc. Apreferred configuration of openings 312 is illustrated in FIG. 10. Theseopenings 312 are arcuate slots arranged every 90 degrees about adiameter D. The diameter D is chosen such that the entire openings 312are within a mouth diameter Dm of the nipple portion 306 such that theopenings 312 are not occluded by the flange 306 a of the nipple portion306.

The valve 300 further has a shape memory actuator 314 for substantiallyclosing the at least one opening 312 when the temperature of the fluidis above the predetermined threshold to prevent the fluid from passingfrom the bottle portion 304 to the nipple portion 306. That is, theshape memory actuator 314 has an open shape, shown in FIG. 8, to allowfluid to pass through the openings 312 when the temperature of the fluidis below the threshold and has a closed shape, shown in FIG. 11, whichblocks the openings 312 when the temperature of the fluid is above thethreshold. The shape memory actuator 314 is preferably, fabricated froma shape memory material and is preferably shaped as is illustrated inFIG. 10. Although other materials are possible, such as a bimetal strip,shape memory materials are preferred for their strength and for thelarge forces that can be attained when heated to above their transitiontemperature. The shape memory actuator 314 is preferably affixed to thebody 310 by a fastening means such as a rivet 315, however, otherfastening means are possible, such as a screw and nut or a swaged postdisposed in a hole. The shape memory actuator 314 may also be spotwelded, welded, or brazed to the body 310, although the repeatedactuation of the same may cause such fastening means to fail over aperiod of time. Furthermore, the body 310 and actuator 314 can be of aunitary construction. For instance, the flaps 316 can be stamped fromthe body 310 to create the openings 312.

The shape memory actuator 314 preferably has a flap 316 corresponding toeach opening 312. The flaps 316 are sized and shaped to cover theopenings 312 when the shape memory actuator 314 is in the closedposition (when the temperature of the fluid is above the threshold ortransition temperature) and sized and shaped so as not to occlude theopenings when the shape memory actuator 314 is in the open position(when the temperature of the fluid is below the threshold or transitiontemperature). Alternatively, the shape memory actuator 314 can be cupshaped, as is described below with regard to other variations of thevalve of the present invention.

The shape memory actuator 314 is preferably fabricated from a shapememory material which exhibits a two-way memory such that it has thefirst open shape below the predetermined threshold so as not to occludethe at least one opening and has the second closed shape above thepredetermined threshold so as to occlude the at least one opening.Although not preferred, the shape memory actuator 314 can also befabricated from a shape memory material that exhibits a one-way memoryto only close when heated above the predetermined threshold, in whichcase it would have to be manually opened into the open position.

As shown in FIG. 11, the valve 300 may also have a seal disposed betweenthe body 310 and the actuator 314. Preferably, the seal comprises arubber or other elastomer coating 318 disposed on at least the portionsof the body 310 and actuator 314 that engage when the actuator 314 is inthe closed position. Preferably the elastomer coating 318 covers allportions of the valve 300 and can withstand repeated cleaning in adishwasher. The rubber coating 318 may also have a seal ring 320 thatfacilitates the liquid seal between the actuator 314 and the body 310.The seal ring 320 can have any number of cross-sectional shapesincluding curved, square, rectangular or triangular.

Referring now to FIGS. 12 and 13, there is shown a second variation ofthe valve, generally referred to by reference numeral 400. The secondvariation of valve 400 is similar in construction to the first variationvalve 300 discussed above but has more general applications,particularly in plumbing. In general, the second variation of the valve400 prevents the flow of fluid from an outlet when the temperature ofthe fluid is above a predetermined threshold or prevents the flow offluid in a conduit when the temperature of the fluid is above thepredetermined threshold. The valve generally comprises a body 402 havingat least one opening 404 for allowing the fluid to pass through theoutlet or conduit when the temperature of the fluid is below thepredetermined threshold. The valve 400 also has a shape memory actuator406 for substantially closing the at least one opening 404 when thetemperature of the fluid is above the predetermined threshold to preventthe fluid from passing through the outlet or through the conduit.

As discussed above with regard to valve 300, the body 402 is preferablydisk shaped and the at least one opening 404 preferably comprises aplurality of openings 404 preferably arranged annularly about the discbody 402. Although the body 402 and actuator 406 can be of unitaryconstruction, as discussed above, it is preferred that they compriseseparate pieces and are joined with a fastening means as discussedabove, preferably by a rivet 408. Since, the valve 400 has particularutility in plumbing, the body 402 is preferably fabricated from standardplumbing materials, such as copper, and may even be coated with standardplumbing coatings, such as chrome. Also like the valve 300 discussedabove, the valve 400 has a sealing means to seal the flow of fluid whenthe actuator 406 is in the closed position. Preferably the sealing meanscomprises an o-ring 410 disposed in a corresponding groove 412 on asurface 402 a of the body 402 that engages the actuator 406 when theactuator 406 is in the closed position. The sealing means may alsocomprise an elastomer coating on one or both of the actuator 406 andbody 402, as discussed above with regard to valve 300.

The valve 400 is preferably positioned in the conduit or outlet suchthat fluid pressure aids in keeping the actuator 406 in the closedposition when the fluid temperature is above the predeterminedthreshold. The shape of the actuator 406 for the valve 400 of the secondvariation is preferably cup shaped, although the flap shape discussedabove with regard to valve 300 may also be utilized. The cup shapedactuator 406 preferably is concave when below its transition temperature(i.e., below the predetermined threshold temperature) and flat shapedwhen below the transition temperature. When concave, the actuator 406does not occlude the openings 404 to permit fluid flow through the valve400. When flat, the actuator 406 occludes the openings 404 to stop orblock the fluid flow through the valve 400. As discussed above, theactuator 406 is preferably a shape memory material but can also be abi-metal strip. Furthermore, the actuator 406 preferably exhibitstwo-way memory such that it has the cup shape when below its transitiontemperature and has the flat shape when above its transitiontemperature.

Although, the valve has particular utility for liquids, it may also beused to stop the flow of gases when the temperature of the gas is overthe predetermined threshold. Furthermore, other shapes in both the openand closed positions are possible for the actuator 406. It only beingnecessary for the actuator 406 to block the openings 404 in one shapeand to unblock the openings 404 in another shape.

Referring now to FIG. 14, there is shown the valve 400 utilized in afaucet 500 and preferably part of an outlet fitting 502 for the outlet508 of the faucet 500. The outlet fitting 502 is used to prevent theflow of fluid from the outlet 508 when the temperature of the fluid isabove a predetermined threshold. The outlet fitting 502 can be utilizedfor a faucet used with a sink or a bathtub or for other uses to preventthe fluid exiting the outlet 508 from being too hot. The fitting 502comprises a fitting body 504 having a conduit 506 in fluid communicationwith the outlet 508 and a threaded portion 510 for fastening to a matingthreaded portion 512 on the outlet 508. The valve 400 is disposed in thefitting 502 such that when the actuator 406 is closed to occlude theopenings 404, the fluid is prevented from flowing from the outlet 508.Preferably, the body 504 of the outlet fitting 502 has a stepped portion514 for sandwiching the valve 400 between the stepped portion 514 and alip 516 of the outlet 508. As discussed above, the valve 400 ispreferably positioned with the actuator 406 on the pressurized side ofthe fluid flow such that the fluid flow tends to aid in closing theactuator 406 when the temperature of the fluid is above thepredetermined threshold temperature. FIG. 15 illustrates the outletfitting configured as a showerhead 502 a for preventing the flow offluid from the showerhead when the temperature of the fluid is greaterthan the predetermined threshold temperature. The outlet fitting orshowerhead can also contain a filter for filtering particulate matterfrom the fluid flow, such as a mesh as is well known in the art.

Referring now to FIG. 16, there is shown a coupling 700 for placement ina fluid conduit 702. The coupling 700 has a valve 400 disposed thereinto prevent the flow of fluid in the conduit 702 when the temperature ofthe fluid is greater than the predetermined threshold temperature. Thecoupling 700 comprises a coupling body 704 having an inlet end 706 andan outlet end 708. The inlet and outlet ends 706, 708 can connect to theconduit 702 by any means known in the art, such as by a threadedconnection 703. The coupling body can be fabricated from any plumbingmaterial known in the art, such as copper, brass, stainless steel, orPVC. The valve is disposed in the coupling body to prevent the flow ofhot fluids from the outlet end 708. As discussed above, the valve 400 ispreferably positioned with the coupling 700 on the pressurized side ofthe fluid flow such that the fluid flow tends to aid in closing theactuator 406 when the temperature of the fluid is above thepredetermined threshold temperature.

Preferably, the valve 400 is retained in the coupling 700 by sandwichingthe same between a stepped portion 710 and a insert 712. The insert 712is disposed in one of the outlet or inlet ends 706, 708 and facing thestepped portion 710. A seal (not shown) can be provided between thevalve body 402 and the coupling body 704 to provide a fluid seal whenthe actuator 406 is in the closed position. Such a seal can be ano-ring, gasket seal (not shown), or tapered pipe threads. The insert 712is preferably retained in the body 704 by a threaded connection 714,however any other means for retaining the insert 712 in the body 704 canbe used, such as by a weld or adhesive. Preferably, the insert 712contains an undercut 716 such that its outer wall does not interferewith the inner wall of the body 704.

Referring now to FIG. 17, there is shown one example of a means forvarying the threshold temperature at which the flow of fluid is stopped.FIG. 17 illustrates a faucet 800 having an outlet 802. An outlet fitting804, similar to the outlet fitting 502 as discussed above is provided onthe outlet end 802. However, the outlet fitting 800 contains more thanone valve 400 a, 400 b, two of which are shown for simplicity. Valve 400a has a predetermined threshold temperature of T1 which is less then thepredetermined threshold temperature T2 of the other valve 400 b. Aretaining means is provided to retain the actuator of valve 400 a inwhich case the fluid flow is stopped when its temperature is above T2.The retaining means is shown as one or more plungers 806 that can bepushed into engagement with the actuator 406 a of valve 400 a to preventthe actuator 406 a from closing even where the fluid temperature isabove T1. The plungers 806 have a seal 808, such as an o-ring to preventfluid leakage. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that manyretaining means can be utilized without departing from the spirit orscope of the present invention. If the retaining means is disengaged,the fluid flow will be stopped when the fluid reaches the T1temperature.

Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that other configurationsfor varying the temperature at which the fluid flow is stopped arepossible. For instance, the outlet fitting can have more than one valve,each of which has a different threshold temperature at which the fluidflow is stopped. The valves are disposed in an off-center turret designwhere one of the valves is rotated into a position communicating withthe outlet while the others are not in communication with the outlet. Inthis way, one can select the temperature at which they desire the fluidflow to be stopped by rotating the proper valve into communication withthe outlet.

Referring now to FIG. 18, there is shown a straw, generally referred toby reference numeral 900. The straw 900 having an insert 902 disposedthereon, such as by a snug slip fit. The insert 902 having a safetyvalve 904 fitted therein, the safety valve 904 being shown schematicallyby dotted line. The safety valve 904 can be configured in any of theways described above, particularly with regard to that described withthe coffee lid. Although, the safety valve 904 is shown incorporatedinto a reusable insert 902 that is then fitted to the drinking end 900 aof the straw 900, the safety valve 904 can alternatively be integralwith the straw 900 and disposable with the straw 900. As liquid issucked through the straw 900 and through the safety valve 904 in theinsert 902, if the liquid is below a predetermined temperature, theliquid will continue to flow into the person's mouth. However, if thetemperature of the liquid is too hot, i.e., it is above thepredetermined temperature, the safety valve will be activated asdiscussed above to prevent any fluid flow to the person's mouth.

While there has been shown and described what is considered to bepreferred embodiments of the invention, it will, of course, beunderstood that various modifications and changes in form or detailcould readily be made without departing from the spirit of theinvention. It is therefore intended that the invention be not limited tothe exact forms described and illustrated, but should be constructed tocover all modifications that may fall within the scope of the appendedclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A valve for preventing the flow of fluid when thetemperature of the fluid is above a predetermined threshold, the valvecomprising: a body having at least one opening for allowing the fluid topass when the temperature of the fluid is below the predeterminedthreshold; and a shape memory actuator for substantially closing the atleast one opening when the temperature of the fluid is above thepredetermined threshold to prevent the fluid from passing; wherein thevalve is configured such that a flow of the fluid through the body actsto close the shape memory actuator against the at least one opening. 2.The valve of claim 1, wherein the body is disk shaped.
 3. The valve ofclaim 2, wherein the at least one opening comprises a plurality ofopenings.
 4. The valve of claim 3, wherein at least some of theplurality of openings are arranged annularly about the disc.
 5. Thevalve of claim 3, wherein the plurality of openings are offset from acentral axis of the fitting body.
 6. The valve of claim 1, wherein theactuator comprises a cantilevered flap having an end portioncorresponding to the at least one opening, the flap being fabricatedfrom a shape memory material and having a shape at a temperature belowthe determined threshold such that it does not occlude the at least oneopening, the flap having a shape at a temperature above the determinedthreshold such that it does occlude the at least one opening to preventthe passage of fluid.
 7. The valve of claim 6, wherein the flap isfabricated from a shape memory material which exhibits a two-way memorysuch that it has a first shape below the predetermined threshold so asnot to occlude the at least one opening and has a second shape above thepredetermined threshold so as to occlude the at least one opening. 8.The valve of claim 1, wherein the actuator comprises a cantilevered flaphaving an end portion corresponding to the at least one opening, theflap being fabricated from a shape memory material and having a cuppedshape at a temperature below the determined threshold such that it doesnot occlude the at least one opening, the flap having a flat shape at atemperature above the determined threshold such that it does occlude theat least one opening to prevent the passage of fluid.
 9. The valve ofclaim 8, wherein the flap is fabricated from a shape memory materialwhich exhibits a two-way memory such that it has the cupped shape belowthe predetermined threshold so as not to occlude the at least oneopening and has the flat shape above the predetermined threshold so asto occlude the at least one opening.
 10. The valve of claim 1, furthercomprising a seal disposed between the body and the actuator.
 11. Thevalve of claim 1, wherein the at least one opening is offset from acentral axis of the fitting body.